M.S. and Ph.D. Programs

Applying to graduate programs in Vision Science

Applications for the thesis-based M.S. in Vision Science are accepted three times per year for fall, spring, and summer semesters. Applications for the nonthesis M.S. and the Ph.D. are accepted only once each year.

M.S. (nonthesis)

Ph.D.

Admission requirements

Three letters of recommendation (if you have research experience, at least one letter from a previous research mentor is valuable)

Non-native English speakers must have taken the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) within the last five years and demonstrate English proficiency.

Recommended for thesis-based M.S.

The successful candidate for the thesis-based M.S. in Vision Science will have identified a faculty mentor prior to applying. This ensures that there is an opening for the student and that the work can be completed within two years.

Recommended for non-thesis-based-M.S.

The typical candidate for the nonthesis Master of Science program is a practitioner who has an undergraduate degree in optometry or its equivalent and is licensed or license eligible to practice optometry in their home country. Nontypical candidates also may be considered. However, they should correspond with the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs before applying.

Step 1: Apply to the University Graduate School

All applicants—domestic and international—must complete the University Graduate School application. This application will put you in consideration for admission to the M.S. or Ph.D. graduate programs and also for financial aid.

The application fee is $55 for domestic students and $65 for international students. Applications are not reviewed until this fee is paid.

International applicants should work with the Office of International Services to submit supporting documents, including official academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and financial records.

Step 2: Request and submit letters of recommendation

In addition to the basic information on your application, we require three letters of recommendation from former professors, supervisors, professional optometrists, or anyone else who can give an overall honest assessment of your abilities and character.

You can send reference requests through the online application, or you can provide your references with a paper recommendation form, which you can find on the University Graduate School website.